I'll have to check into that recycling stuff! I've thought of the D Cells or the threaded ones, but couldn't afford such a thing...
I bet you won't need 1200 volts, though, unless that is what Wayland is using: (I've been surfing...)
Oregon Field Guide — Electric Drag Racing · Oregon Public Broadcasting
Talk about cool!
I'd LOVE to be able to build something like that on my budget!!!